Author Archives: Michael Serratore

The Chill Dojo #119

After all the hype around the big game, whether it’s coming down after massive celebrations or getting over a bitter defeat, a dose of chill music is always a clever play. This week’s edition begins with a track that under normal circumstances would have no right headlining any form of laid-back playlist. But we deal in unique selections here, and so this flip of the iconic ‘Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites’ is the perfect fit to get things going with that future feel. The teamwork of StéLouse and Ahh-ooh is bursting with color and creativity, transporting the classic heavy-hitter into the new era of electronic music, celebrating bright melodies that make us grin from ear to ear. It’s proof that no matter how many times a song undergoes the remix treatment, there are always artists out there with the ability to re-imagine things in a whole new way. That holds true for the next glorious release from French duo Basic Tape, elevating ‘Heroes’ into a whole new level of feel-good status. Where the original seems to utilize the vocals as pure buildup to the drop, the funky chords shine a new light on the anthemic lyrics and ensure they’re not lost amongst the standard formula of EDM. While it could be argued that this is the way that the booming tropical house genre has headed, there’s still hope that innovation in this style hasn’t died hard just yet. Norway’s Matoma is one artist still flying the flag and producing the vibes we’re happy to have in our ears. His latest installment of remix goodness is a fresh take on the Jay Z classic, crafting the sweet summer sounds that have inspired him since the very beginning.

It hasn’t taken long for Dojo favorite jackLNDN to pop up in the playlist once again, this time bringing his silky touch to a soulful original from Austrian songwriter James Hersey. In signature fashion, his treatment is here is all class, laying down another deep groove steeped in palpable emotion. While we’re indulging our softer side, shmallen has done us the courtesy of bringing back some vintage 90’s RnB with his rework of ‘Too Close’. Either through the power of nostalgia or just the infectious funk, this track will have you taken over by dance fever one way or the other. This week’s write-up wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the amazing free EP that Louis Futon gifted to all his fans. Fortunately for us, that included a number of quality chill inclusions that feel right at home in edition 119.

So whatever the outcome was for you, make sure to soak up these vibes as the perfect post-match routine. Peace out.

’Skrillex – Scary Monsters And Nice Sprites (SteLouse & Ahh Ooh Remix)’
’Alesso – Heroes Ft. Tove Lo (Basic Tape Remix)’
’Jay Z – Roc Boys (Matoma Remix)’
’James Hersey – What I’ve Done (JackLNDN Remix)’
’Next – Too Close (shmallen Edit)’
’Louis Futon – Take Off’
’Louis Futon – Silk’
’Louis Futon – Sir Rock (Kasbo Remix)’
’OHD – Priorities’
’aywy – opiate’
’Oh Wonder – Lose It’
’Mr FijiWiji – Yours Truly (feat. Danyka Nadeau)’
’Ed Sheeran – Thinking Out Loud (Mura Masa Remix)’
’Johnny Rain – iii (Myles.William Remix)’
’Stwo – Pandora’
’Stwo – Eden (Oshi Remix)’
’justin timberlake – suit & tie (oshi remix)’
’Nick Leng – Inside Your Mind (feat. Carmody)’
’Wycleaf Jean Ft. Avicii – Divine Sorrow (Klingande Remix)’
’Satin Jackets feat. Esser – Shine On You’
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The Chill Dojo #118

Album-mode had left releases from Madeon few and far between in 2014, but with the eargerly awaited Adventure now officially dated for the end of March, we’re sure to have plenty of material in store from the prodigious youngster. This week already saw some jaw-dropping remixes surface in the blogosphere, and boy were we stoked when we saw Gramatik’s name etched across one of them. The legendary beatmaker has pulled out all the stops in bringing the funk to ‘You’re On’, bolstered by jazzy riffs and breathtaking drum breakdowns which amplify the power of the anthemic vocals. It’s the perfect mix of 70’s dancefloor groove with the ability to set festival crowds alight, all while maintaining a steady chill vibe throughout. It wasn’t the end to the star-studded remix lineup though, with Oliver also throwing their funky influence behind this same song. In effortless fashion, they hold complete control over the progression of this song and movements of the listener alike, leaving it completely impossible to deny the unrestrained dancing your body will crave with this in your ears. And when you thought things couldn’t get any more mesmerizing, the saxophone solo comes in just to leave this remix mastery complete.

Hot on the heels of the unveiling of ‘Four Five Seconds’, Lido has further proven his musical dominance with a mind-blowing version that leaves the original irrelevant in comparison. If the sheer agility of this release wasn’t enough, the use of live brass and guitar is just insanely good, combining for a flawless interpretation that wouldn’t be out of place at any uplifting Sunday Service. Something this addictive has to be a sin right? Capitalizing on this state of euphoria, this next tune from Denver-based Said The Sky will keep things elevated and the feelings right. Channeling some serious Porter vibes, ‘Run Away’ is wrapped in floating melodies that burst into colorful moments of bass-filled happiness. It’s ecstasy from start to finish, steeped in emotional vocals that reflect a palpable dream-like state. While we’re talking all things heavenly, Australia’s Omniment has kicked off his 2015 with another magical addition to his growing repertoire. Where stwo’s original allows plenty of time to build, this blissful take on ‘Eden’ enjoys exploration through serene melodies and gorgeous chords that do well to represent the paradise the title embodies.

Despite the words written above, you’ll find that this week’s playlist has all intentions of leaving you speechless. We much prefer to let the music do the talking anyway. Peace out.

’Madeon – You’re On ft. Kyan (Gramatik Remix)’
’Madeon – You’re On ft. Kyan (Oliver Remix)’
’Lido – FourFiveSeconds (Lido’s Sunday Service)’
’Said The Sky – Run Away (Ft. Car)’
’Stwo – Eden (Omniment Remix)’
’Hopium – Dreamers (Kicks N Licks Remix)’
’Tobu & Jordan Kelvin James – Summer Breeze’
’Porsches – Horses’
’Earth, Wind & Fire – September (wolfskind & Mokoa Remix)’
’London Grammar – Hey Now (Good Life Remix)’
’Lenny Kravitz x KANT – Believe In Me (AA ‘Outside’ Bootleg)’
’Falcon Punch – Silk’
’ODESZA – Bloom (Lane 8 Remix)’
’Solomon Grey – Miradors (The Him Remix)’
’Oliver Heldens ft. KStewart – Last All Night (Koala) (Keljet Remix)’
’bewilderbeast – Place X’
’Adam Snow – Amelias Theme’
’Sorrow – Never Too Far’
’Mark Johns – In Paris (Prod. Sable)’
’duncan gerow – Aaliyah + Tim & Bob = Rock The Boat’
’Hozier – Take Me To Church (TEEMID & Jasmine Thompson Edition)’
’Stwo – Far Away (“OPIATES” Rashiid Remix)’
’Alicia Keys – Feelin’ U, Feelin’ Me (Fade & Break Remix)’
’Kastle – Falling Up ft. Xavier’
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The Chill Dojo #117

Let us ease you into another working week with some smooth head-bopping action from jackLNDN. The London boy does what he does best, infusing the gorgeous vocals of the Lapsley original with his trademark sexy grooves that float gracefully along without a care in the world. The antics of the weekend may be a distant memory, but there’s no reason Monday should be any harder than it needs to be. Tontario shares a similar vision for ‘Falling Short’, offering a vibe that’s a little more upbeat, but equally as silky when it comes to the beat and flow. Only a month ago we were graced with the late night disco vibes from Lenno’s ‘No More’, and with the first release of the Wake Up Remix EP comes the perfect rework from Les Loups. The German production trio put their deep house finesse on full display, adding a layer of glorious summer melody to elevate the feel-good sensation that the original cultivates.

Where these first features sat comfortably on the mellow side, Austrian duo Urban Contact turn up the heat on a sultry original from Olympique. Burning riffs and melting sax create a formidable energy behind the soulful lyrics, but despite the intensity there is still an undeniable element of chill to the heated affair. Pierce Fulton had no trace of laid back intentions with the original mix of ‘Kuaga’, but the live version shifts gear from the electro style and lets the blissful chants play out with stunning melodies and instrumental touches. This one forgoes the desire for a sweaty crowd and instead aims to inspire palpable chills and hair-tingling feelings. It’s the musical sensation that Snakehips live and breathe with each and every release, and they’ve kick-started their 2015 campaign with a sublime statement in ‘Gone’. Jazzy tones have always been their forte, but this time it’s a slow jam that brings the funk together with the sexy voice of Syd.

It won’t take much to lose yourself in the grooves this week. Before you know it, Friday night will arrive and the fun begins all over again. Peace out.

’Lapsley – Falling Short (JackLNDN Remix)’
’Låpsley – Falling Short (Tontario Remix)’
’Lenno – No More (Les Loups Remix)’
’Olympique – Face Down The Earth (Urban Contact Remix)’
’Pierce Fulton – Kuaga (Live Version)’
’Snakehips – Gone (Feat. Syd)’
’PHONY PPL – Why iii Love The Moon.’
’Just A Gent – Limelight (Louis Futon Remix)’
’Tegan And Sara – I Can’t Take It (Matoma Remix)’
’Tracy Chapman – Fast Car (Smiles Davis Remix)’
’Amy Winehouse – Rehab (Tom Misch Remix)’
’OAK – Hold Me Close’
’Tabrill – Moving On (ft. Feki)’
’Oh Wonder – The Rain (Saje Remix)’
’Hiko Momoji – Mirage Island’
’The White Panda – Pony Lasts Forever (Ginuwine // Feki)’
’Alex Young / Lontalius – Maybe Your Smile Will’
’Aeuria – Wrapped Up In Her’
’Goose Bumps & Squib – I´m Gonna Make It (Original Mix)’
’Notize – Meadow Run’
’Aquilo – I Gave It All (Wayward Remix)’
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The Chill Dojo #116

There’s nothing like a bit of shelter from the cold outside with some hearty tunes to warm the soul. This week the fire gets kindled by a bumpin remix from Toronto native Birthday Boy whichdebuted just a few days ago. An initial listen suggests some inspiration from fellow countryman Kaytranada, as this rendition of ‘Dark Doo Wop’ has been flipped with the funkiest of basslines generating infectious bounce from beginning to end. The amazing transformations don’t end there though, because up next is an acoustic take on a classic deep house jam from Ben Pearce. Those familiar with the original will understand the immense feat that French duo Mandeh and GuitK have achieved with this collab, trading the intense bass for feelgood vibes that brings the iconic lyrics into a whole new light. But if we’re talking timeless vocals, then something along the lines of ‘Tom’s Diner’ would definitely make the list. It’s only appropriate then that Gianni Kosta has delivered this remake as our next serving of groovy goodness. Laced with the perfect touch of tropical, this is a fun interpretation that brings a fresh perspective to the unforgettable original.

From there we transition into some summery goodness from none other than Keljet, bringing their trademark nu-disco stylings over ‘The Sign’. Even though we didn’t need any more convincing on the quality of this track, they even capped it off with a sweet sax solo to win our hearts over good and proper. Rounding out the write-up is another Dojo favorite in Lenno, kicking off his 2015 campaign with a dance-inducing concoction like only he knows how. Carefree feelings and a catchy chorus give this one all the elements to be a late night anthem, and it’s definitely what you’d want as the soundtrack to your next adventure.

The fun never stops when you’re on the hunt for new music though. Just one of the reasons that keeps bringing us back for more. Peace out.

’MS MR
Dark Doo Wop (Birthday Boy Version)’
’Mandeh & GuitK – What I might do (Cover)’
’Gianni Kosta – Tom’s Diner’
’Lyon Hart – The Sign (Keljet Remix)’
’Scavenger Hunt – Lost (Lenno Remix)’
’Carter – Used ft. Taylor (Original Mix)’
’Younker – Eden’
’Hedegaard ft Lukas Graham – Happy Home (Sam Feldt Remix)’
’MNEK – The Rhythm (Tontario Remix)’
’ABSRDST – Touch The Source’
’Atlas Bound – Talk (Jerry Folk Remix)’
’Motorcycle – As The Rush Comes (It’s Always Austin’s Fault Remix)’
’Suprafive – Fountain of Life’
’coyote kisses – revive’
’simplí – passion fruit’
’Samuel Proffitt X AOBeats – Sirens ft. Jeff Sontag & Jess Zobler’
’Phazz – I Think About U’
’Tory Lanez – Henny In Hand (Fortune & Ekali Remix)’

 

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The Chill Dojo #115

New years often bring about declarations of resolutions that never come to pass, but one thing you can count on in 2015 is that the Chill Dojo will continue to share the music that will make you smile.

On that note, we’re kicking off this year’s editions with the ‘Bright Side’, a feelgood collaboration from French groups Mozambo and Basic Tape, featuring the catchy vocals from Julia Church. Whether it’s reflecting on a stellar 12 months just past, or gazing forward with a positive outlook, this jam has the perfect vibe to get you in the right space. More than that though, the funky jazz riff ensures this one has plenty of dance-ability to keep it on heavy rotation. In much the same way, ‘Movin On’ carries similar sentiments of positivity melded within an incredible groove courtesy of Twax. Released on the eclectic Bearded Man Recordings, it’s the perfect upbeat addition to your music addiction for 2015. Acoustic melodies and deep electronic vibes have always been a guilty pleasure for the Dojo, and French artist RÆVE has definitely reconfirmed that with ‘The Sweetest Sin’. The tropical tinge combines with the suggestive lyrics to make this a very heated affair, and one best enjoyed in the right company.

2014 highlighted a massive progression for TMN favorite Glastrophobie, so it’s fitting that this year began with a premiere of his latest remix of GEMOLOGY. He continues to impress with his unique arsenal of glorious melodies, all while retaining the elements that make the original so great. We were certainly blessed with a year full of amazing sounds, but right before things came to a close, Bondax unleashed this funky weapon to put the icing on the cake. The talents of this young duo needed no reaffirmation, but it’s definitely got us psyched for what’s in store for playlists ahead.

All in all, whatever 2015 brings, Dojo #115 will give you the sounds to take it all on with the right attitude. Peace out.

’Mozambo & Basic Tape Ft. Julia Church – Bright Side’
’Twax Feat. Solomina – Movin On’
’RÆVE – The Sweetest Sin (Original Mix)’
’GEMOLOGY – First & Last (Glastrophobie Remix)’
’Bondax – Dusk Funk Ft. Ayah Marar’
’Patrick Baker – More Love’
’KR – LOVE 4 YOU’
’Sprill – All My Love’
’The HIPSTA – MARBLE’
’Toby Gale – Hawaii Wifi Tiger Moves’
’Brandy – I Wanna Be Down (Canblaster ReMIX)’
’Banks – Stick (Myles.William Remix)’
’XXYYXX – About You (DIVERSA Edit)’
’Gladys Knight & The Pips – If I Were Your Woman (Akshin Alizadeh Remix)’
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The Chill Dojo #114

We’ve come to the last Chill Dojo of the year and there’s still plenty of amazing music to cover off before 2014 is done and dusted. As always, the Christmas period is a generous time where artists gift their fans with the end-of year releases, so rest-assured this final edition is stuffed with the freshest tunes we could find.

What is it with New Zealand and talented young vocalists? ‘If Only’ boasts some serious potential from 17 year-old songstress Maya Payne, and we can only hope future songs of this same caliber can rocket her to Lorde levels of stardom. The enchanting vocals alone are enough to warrant our full support, but the Flume-like production elevates this track to a certified anthem. Speaking about recognition, young Melbourne duo Two Can are finally getting their just deserts thanks to their recent soulful release ‘Double Edge’, which is since nearing the 200k play mark. The clean beat creates the perfect environment for Father Dude to work his vocal magic, and together they combine for an incredible feeling that reaches deep inside. This year has seen its fair share of remixes for the sun-drenched ‘Till Sunrise’, but it’s Mysto and Pizzi who will have the last say on Goldroom’s hit before 2014 is up. Their re-imagination  makes a point of demonstrating the evident depth to their musical prowess, floating between progressive and downtempo elements which meld together in a wonderful cohesion.

2014 will be remembered for the rise of the Tropical genre, and the next two features from Henri Pfr and Matoma will be our nods to the success it achieved in the world of electronic music. It’s been another great year for Chill vibes as a whole though, and the Dojo has been kept busy each and every day scouting for all those treasures that just need to be shared. You can be sure the work will continue right where we left off. Peace out.

’Maya Payne – If Only’
’Two Can & Father Dude – Double Edge’
’Goldroom – Till Sunrise (Mysto & Pizzi Remix)’
’Gostan – Klanga (Henri Pfr Remix)’
’MYNGA – Back Home (Matoma Remix)’
’Blue Satellite feat. Jhameel – Just A Little Bit’
’Listenbee – Save Me’
’La Plage – Rendez Vous (Saint Pepsi Remix)’
’Wu Tang Clan Ft. Ron Isley – Back In The Game (Sohight & Cheevy Remix)’
’Nora En Pure – Turn It Around (Original Mix)’
’Robin Schulz x Nicolas Jaar – Prayer In C (AA ‘Gravy Train’ Bootleg)’
’SiR – The Bullet and The Gun (HMLT Edit)’
’John Mayer – Free Fallin’ (/ˈlo͞osid/ Remix)’
’Harrison – Space Jam’
’Autolaser – Ya Comin Home (Autolaser Vip)’
’Sable – Feels So Good (XMAS VIP)’
’Japanese Wallpaper – Between Friends (Sable remix)’
’Polar Youth – Samuel’
’Mr. Carmack – love loving you in 3/4’

 

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[Trap] Deorro – Five Hours (Empia Remix)

Deorro
Five Hours (Empia Remix)

There’s no doubt that Deorro’s ‘Five Hours’ is one of the best electro house tracks of 2014, but there has been much contention over the inclusion of DyCy’s lyrical work in the vocal edition. Many listeners have voiced their preference for the instrumental version, feeling the unnecessary addition takes away from the melodic power of the original. Here to put those quarrels to rest, Sydney’s Empia has shone a new light on the validity of the lyrics by flipping it into a glorious trap experience. In stripping back the energized house beat into a more reserved vibe, the emotion of the song comes to the fore and reaches the euphoric peak it had always intended. More impressive though, he’s managed to keep those iconic vocal chops intact as a proper tribute to the artist’s work, and that’s the level of detail that elevates this to be exactly our kind of remix.

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